Promoting Healthy Lifestyles: Availability of Healthy Resources and Prescriptions from Health Professionals-The Case of Tarragona, Spain

Identifier:  imarina:9414305

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/imarina9414305

Authors:  Bustamante-Picon, Edgar; Cuesta-Martinez, Roser; Perez-Albert, Yolanda; Gonzalez, Joan Alberich; Torner, Rosa D Raventos

Abstract:
This research provides a comprehensive view of the geolocation of physical health assets in the city of Tarragona (Spain) and how these assets are used and recommended by healthcare professionals to promote healthy lifestyles. Focusing on the distribution and accessibility of sports facilities, such as outdoor gyms or football and basketball courts, this study highlights the importance of these assets in leading a healthy life and preventing chronic diseases. This article investigates the availability of these assets and their prescription by healthcare professionals to improve people's quality of life through surveys and fieldwork. It evaluates both the knowledge healthcare professionals have about these available assets in the area and the types of physical activity they prescribe. The results show significant variability in the availability of physical health assets across different neighbourhoods. However, most residents have good walking access to these assets, especially in the central and western parts of the city. This study concludes that while physical health assets are an underutilised resource for healthcare professionals, enhancing the awareness and prescription of these assets could improve public health outcomes, particularly for older adults.